Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7097

Introduced
1/14/26  

Caption

RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES

Impact

By eliminating registration fees for the Distinguished Service Cross plates, H7097 seeks to ease the financial burdens on veterans who have received this prestigious military honor. This act would allow recipients and their surviving spouses to retain the plate without any additional costs, thereby streamlining the process and providing a small, yet significant, recognition of their service. The removal of the fee demonstrates an acknowledgment of the contributions made by these individuals to the country.

Summary

House Bill H7097 is aimed at amending the regulations surrounding motor vehicle registration in the state, specifically addressing the registration plates for recipients of the United States Army Distinguished Service Cross. The bill proposes to remove the existing fees associated with the registration and transfer of these specialized plates. This is part of a broader effort to honor and recognize military service and sacrifices made by veterans. The anticipated effective date for this amendment is January 1, 2027.

Contention

Although H7097 primarily focuses on the removal of fees without major opposition, it is essential to recognize the general context around similar legislative measures. Typically, such bills can occasionally face scrutiny regarding the fiscal implications for the state budget. However, this specific bill appears to garner support due to its nature of honoring military service, mitigating potential points of contention. The inclusive clause for surviving spouses also extends support beyond the primary recipients, which is likely to contribute positively to its acceptance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0679

RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES

RI H5098

Creates a new motor vehicle registration for "forestry vehicles."

RI S0914

Removes the fee for registration and plate transfer for a Distinguished Service Cross registration plate.

RI S0155

Empowers the division of motor vehicles to make available special motor vehicle registration plates for the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association.

RI H6148

Empowers the division of motor vehicles to make available special motor vehicle registration plates for the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association.

RI H5048

Creates special motor vehicle registration plates for vehicles based on the not-for-profit entity Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub.

RI H6124

Allows the division of motor vehicles to make special motor vehicle registration plates for the not-for-profit entity Cranston Cares provided they meet the minimum order requirements.

RI S0931

Establishes a system of electronic registration and titling of motor vehicles. Rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this chapter to be promulgated by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles.

RI H5458

Establishes a system of electronic registration and titling of motor vehicles. Rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this chapter would be promulgated by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles.

RI S0830

DMV to provide credit for portions of unused voluntarily cancelled vehicle registrations.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.